Counties Energy partners with The Y Camp Adair to launch environmental education initiative

Counties Energy is proud to partner with The Y Camp Adair to introduce Nature’s Classroom, a new environmental education initiative focused on conservation and sustainability. The programme will engage students in hands-on environmental education, including seed collection, propagation and planting, alongside learning about healthy waterways, pest control and biodiversity. This will be offered as an activity in residential camps or as a day trip option for schools visiting from the local area and beyond.

Located near the scenic Hunua Ranges Regional Park, The Y Camp Adair has been a leader in outdoor education since 1913, offering activities such as archery, ropes courses, hiking, kayaking and raft building to more than 20,000 students per year. Nature’s Classroom adds an important environmental component to the camp’s offerings, giving participants the opportunity to contribute directly to conservation efforts.

This initiative is part of the broader, community-led Wairoa River Restoration Project, which aims to mitigate the effects of climate change by enhancing the river’s health. Students will learn about the impacts of crack willow, runoff and sediment, while supporting the project’s goals through the propagating and planting native seedlings. Additionally, the project engages local landowners, the community and local businesses, fostering kaitiakitanga (guardianship) of this vital waterway.

Counties Energy General Manager Safety, Culture and Sustainability, Tracey Kay, says “We are pleased to support Nature’s Classroom and contribute to meaningful environmental restoration. This initiative aligns with our commitment to sustainability, community engagement and hands-on learning, ensuring a lasting impact for future generations.”

A key feature of Nature’s Classroom is the propagation of native plants on-site in a new native plant nursery, ensuring a sustainable supply of seedlings to support ongoing biodiversity restoration. With Counties Energy’s support, The Y Camp Adair will be able to expand its environmental education efforts, providing more opportunities for people to connect with and care for nature.

The Y North Dave Lockwood, GM Fundraising and Restoration Lead for The Y Camp Adair, says “The launch of Nature’s Classroom is an exciting step forward in our commitment to conservation. With Counties Energy’s partnership, we can significantly enhance our restoration efforts, creating a lasting impact on the river, the land and the communities who enjoy them.”